THE Hamsterley Beast is a hell of a ride. It takes place on the weekend of Saturday and Sunday, May 12 and 13. I spoke to Jerry Tatton from the event 

How long has the Beast been running and how did it come about?

The Hamsterley Beast is now in its fourth year. It started out as many things do, a group of lads, after a ride, sat around a pub table. They were talking about incidents and how the Air Ambulance is often seen. “Why don’t we organise a fundraiser, a challenge ride?” someone suggested and so the Beast was born.

When you call something the ‘Beast’ that comes with a certain amount of expectation, does the event live up to the billing?

We believe it does, and we do ask for riders’ feedback. On the second Beast, one or two riders commented on it being a little too easy, so the route was redesigned again and was far more challenging. This year, more fun trails have been put in, but also it has been extended to the ‘Number of the Beast’. A 66.6 mile behemoth of a mountain bike ride

Who is the event aimed at and where do people come from?

All over the UK, we had people from the Isle of Wight last year who we believe are returning. With a 20, 40 and 66.6 mile ride, it’s really aimed at anyone. If a rider is struggling, then there are ‘escape’ points around the course.

What advice would you give someone taking part for the first time?

Train, train, train – no, just come along, get into the spirit of it and the atmosphere, bring friends and ride together. Pace yourselves and bring liquid and carbs!

It seems that it’s more than just a chance to get out on your bike, tell me a bit about what else goes on and what the atmosphere is like?

The atmosphere has been amazing each year, even the first year when there was biblical rainfall. We’ve now organised bands, beers, BBQs, ride demos and camping the day before the event. We even have specialist coffee coming along.

Is this also an opportunity to help spread the word about the beautiful area we live in?

Hell yes. We’ve approached Visit Durham and the people of Wearside in order to get promotion and interact with local businesses. Some riders were seeking B&Bs that have bike fascilities. We talked to many riders from further afield who have participated and they all wanted to return and have a more relaxed ride around

Where do you see the event going in the coming years? Are there any plans in the pipeline?


Bigger and better. Year on year we’ve raised more money for the Great North Air Ambulance. This year we want to break the £100,000 raised over four events. We work with the GNAAS closely and they help support and promote the event.

Can people still sign on, if so how?

If places sell out then unfortunately no. If there are places left, then perhaps we may take on the day entries, but this could prove difficult. 

For more information visit http://www.hamsterleybeast.com/